SRK's singer croons for Salman's buddy!

SRK apparently missed out on hosting Akon's show over sponsorship issues, the singer is now being hosted by Salman Khan's close friend 

International singer Akon and Shah Rukh Khan have become friends in the last year, following him recording a track for the actor's film RaOne. Last year, the actor hosted a bash for the singer. Akon's birthday is around the corner (April 16) and King Khan was planning to have him perform in the city for the same. But due to sponsorship issues as well as time constraints due to the on-going IPL season, he couldn't lock the deal in time.

Meanwhile, Salman Khan wanted to host the event but was advised against it, given his history with SRK. Now, Akon has been scooped out of SRK's camp and the venue for the act has shifted to Pune, and Salman's close friend, Bala is at the helm of things.

An insider spills the beans, "Akon, apparently, gave SRK a discounted rate for the Mumbaiperformance, given their long-standing association. The amount was about 50 lakhs for a two-hour performance but sponsors didn't come on board quick enough and SRK opted to let go of the offer."

The source adds, "Salman suddenly came into the picture and we were informed that he wanted to be involved with the show. But he was advised against it because Akon and SRK have the Ra.One connect. He was told that he could host Akon post SRK's film release not before that. Finally a solution was found. The Pune bash is being hosted by Salman's friend, and while it is still 'his' event, he is not directly in the picture."
Akon is being chartered to Pune.